Adding a concrete or a wood deck to your home is one of the best ways to increase the value of your property. It can also become a favorite gathering place for barbecues, birthdays, and enjoying your outdoor living space.
A deck is an open outdoor porch or platform without a roof that extends from a house. If you’re considering adding a deck to your home, there are several options to consider. One of the main choices you’ll need to make is what type of construction material to use.
Which Material Is Best for Your Home?
If you’re going to invest in an outdoor space, you want to carefully consider all of the factors, including which materials are best to give you a deck that will last. Knowing what each type of material will add to a home and the options it gives you is important before making a final decision.
Concrete Decks
Concrete decks have become increasingly popular with homeowners. That’s because they require very little maintenance, compared to wood decks. Concrete decks are virtually maintenance-free, only needing an occasional washing down with a regular garden hose.
Benefits of concrete decks include:
- Extremely Durable. A concrete deck is extremely strong and rigid. It can withstand more weight and abuse than other materials. It can withstand different types of weather that would wreak havoc on wood and composite materials. With a concrete deck, you don’t have to worry about rotting, termites, splinters, or warping.
- Flexibility. Concrete deck surfaces can be designed according to the homeowner’s preferences. They can be engraved designs stamped on them. The unlimited design options can be stamped with a wide array of patterns to give your outdoor space a different look:
- Cobblestone
- Brick
- Tile
- Wood Plank
- Aesthetics. The appearance of a concrete deck will stay attractive and appealing for many years. Its clean look lends to the aesthetics of the home and landscaping. Wood decks can become faded and splintered, detracting from the home’s curb appeal.
- Low Maintenance. One of the biggest benefits of concrete decks is that they require little to no maintenance. Concrete decks just need a quick rinse with a garden hose to remove dust and debris to leave it looking like new again. The solid concrete surface also prevents grass and weeds from sprouting. Many wood decks have to be stripped, re-stained, re-painted and re-sealed regularly. This means more money out of your pocket.
There are a few downsides to concrete decks, such as:
- Surface Can Be Icy. Winter weather can be a hazard as ice forms on concrete easily.
- Staining. Concrete is susceptible to stains from mud, mildew, and leaves.
- Cost. They require a larger initial investment, but longevity makes it a good value.
Wood Decks
Wood decks are typically built with pressure-treated pine, cedar, or redwood. While wood has been a popular choice for decking material, it comes with some benefits and downsides as well.
Pros of wood decks:
- Lower Upfront Cost. Wood decks typically have a lower upfront cost than other material options for a deck. The actual cost varies widely by the type of wood selected.
- Better Resale Value. When selling your home, a wood deck offers a high resale value. An added outdoor space is always a plus for potential homebuyers.
- Flexibility. Wood decks can be installed on any type of land and grade. They work well even if your yard is not level.
Cons:
- More Maintenance. One of the primary disadvantages of a wood deck is that it requires consistent maintenance and doesn’t last as long as a concrete deck. This means you’ll pay a higher overall cost after factoring in maintenance and replacing the deck.
- Less Durable. Wood is much less durable than a concrete deck. The lack of durability is even more prominent in areas with extreme temperatures that wreak havoc on wood causing warping, sagging, rotting, fading, and broken boards. Termites are a concern with wood decks and can easily spread to the house, causing significant structural damage.
We Can Build the Best Deck for Your Home
RT Construction is a reputable home builder and remodeling contractor. We can design an outdoor space you’ll never want to leave. Wood or concrete, our team of contractors can custom build it all. Whether it be a deck or an entire home, we have the experience to make your residence one of a kind.